What happened
On June 2, 2002, a PA-28R-201T Cherokee Turbo Arrow III, registration I-KITT, performed an emergency landing in rugged terrain near Monte Castello, north of the Marina di Campo airport on Elba Island. The aircraft had departed from runway 34 and, shortly after takeoff, the pilot experienced difficulty maintaining flight, with the nose gear rebounding off the runway.
While the pilot managed to rotate and climb, the aircraft continued on its takeoff heading rather than following the recommended departure path. As the aircraft climbed, the pilot realized that the terrain was becoming too restrictive to allow for a safe right-hand turn. An attempt to turn left was also unsuccessful due to the proximity of the terrain. The pilot subsequently leveled the aircraft and attempted an emergency landing on a flat area. All four occupants successfully evacuated the aircraft before it caught fire and exploded.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation focused on the flight performance, the pilot's decision-making, and the environmental conditions. Investigators examined the aircraft's technical records, which showed that the 100-hour inspection was current and the airworthiness certificate was valid. The aircraft's takeoff weight was approximately 1264 kg, near its maximum certified weight of 1315 kg.
Technical analysis of the climb gradient, measured at approximately 10%, confirmed that the engine was performing according to manufacturer specifications. The investigation concluded that the pilot's perception of insufficient power was likely a result of abrupt control inputs at an inadequate airspeed for the aircraft's high weight, rather than a mechanical failure. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the terrain north of the airport can create downdrafts and turbulence even in light winds.
Findings
- The pilot failed to follow the recommended "Visual take off chart RWY 34" published in the AIP Italia, which is designed to help aircraft clear obstacles in the gorge between Monte Castello and Monte S. Martino.
- Flight planning was inadequate, specifically regarding the high takeoff weight, the use of runway 34, and the prevailing northeasterly winds.
- The aircraft entered a narrowing corridor of terrain where, due to low airspeed and restricted space, the pilot lost the ability to maneuver effectively to avoid obstacles.